Statement by Minister Joly and Minister Hussen on Journey to Freedom Day

Sunday, April 30, 2017

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Canada admitted tens of thousands of Vietnamese refugees, many with the support of families, churches and community groups across the country. It was one of the largest and most significant influxes of refugees and humanitarian efforts Canada had ever seen. It also marked the creation of Canada's private refugee sponsorship model, which is hailed as a model around the world.

Journey to Freedom Day commemorates the exodus of Vietnamese refugees and their acceptance in Canada after the fall of Saigon and the end of the Vietnam War. It is a time to remember the harrowing and courageous journey the Vietnamese "boat people" made to reach our shores and Canada's unprecedented efforts to welcome them.

As Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Multiculturalism, and Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, we encourage all Canadians to learn more about the incredible contributions Canadians of Vietnamese heritage have made to our country and to celebrate a Canada made stronger by its diversity, generosity and welcoming spirit.